Playing for real1992

"Play therapy is much more than mere fun, it is for real," writes Dr. Richard Bromfield in this illuminating book about the fascinating realm of child therapy. Escorting us through the imaginative worlds of his child and teen-aged patients, Dr. Bromfield shows us how he helps them use play therapy to face a wide spectrum of problems--from paralyzing anxiety to incest, from attention-deficit disorder to incipient autism, from divorce to the universally trying demands of growing up. Offering overviews of both children's emotional development and the techniques of play therapy, the book tells the riveting stories of such children as Ashley, whose abandonment in infancy made her unable to accept her loving adoptive family; Bram, whose exasperating practical jokes masked his obsessive love for and fierce resentment of his mother; and Kenna, whose history of sexual abuse led to wild rages and precocious sexual behavior. Taking us from the very beginnings to the ends of therapy, including practical advice on the methods of a child therapist, Dr. Bromfield brings welcome news about the therapeutic powers of play therapy, for the right therapy--and the right match of therapist and child--can heal childhood traumas and can help troubled children grow into emotionally healthy, functioning adults. Gracefully written and refreshingly free of jargon, Playing for Real offers parents, teachers, and therapists a vital new dimension of understanding and a rich source of inspiration. Dr. Bromfield's honesty about the all-too-human limitations and prejudices that he must confront in himself makes this book a landmark work of deep wisdom and rich compassion, and an absorbing self-portrait of a healer at work.